Album Review

This second album from the Latin Playboys continues the avant-roots explorations of their first record. Omnipresent on Dose is Mitchell Froom and Tchad Blake's signature production. The two are so good at what they do that they can make even an average song compelling due to the sonic wizardry of their recording techniques, and they utilize every trick in their lexicon here, from lo-fi vocals to distorted drums. David Hidalgo and Louie Perez do their part by conjuring up a wonderful variety of guitar tones, such as the exploding lead on the title track. However, the tunes here just aren't happening. Recording and production wizardry can only get one so far, and Dose is the result of technique trying to overcompensate for a temporary drop in imagination. This is not to say that there aren't some strong moments on this record. The smoldering "Lemon 'N Ice," featuring Jerry Marotta and Wendy & Lisa (of the Revolution fame), has almost a street-level Steely Dan vibe, and the opening instrumental, "Fiesta Erotica," features a heady dose of Irish and Middle Eastern tonalities. All in all, however, it is more likely to appeal to Froom/Blake fans than Los Lobos fans. Not a bad thing necessarily, but definitely a surprise for most who were expecting "La Bamba."

Customer Reviews

For those tired of the same ol' same ol'

by
ladybugscbs

I have to disagree with the review Itunes made of this album. You have to remember this group is NOT Los Lobos. It was never meant to be. This is a side project, away from the legendary Los Lobos, where (I'm sure) pressure comes from record companys for mainstream hits. This group has always been about experimentation and making music, for the joy of making music. Not only do you have the incredable musical ideas coming from David, and Louie, but it is put through the warpped minds of Tchad Black, and Mitchell Froom...genius. If you are looking for 'LaBamba' it's true you will not find it here. If you are looking for something truely interesting, different, and something that will grow on you every time you listen to it...this is it. I find something new everytime I hear it again. That is the mark of a truley great record. Imagaine, making music, because you enjoy it...it's great to hear these music legends, having fun, making music, with the imagination of a kid...once again genius.

Biography

Formed: 1994 in Los Angeles, CA

Genre: Rock

Years Active: '90s

David Hidalgo and Louie Perez of Los Lobos hooked up with Tchad Blake and producer Mitchell Froom for this side project, a twisted and avant-garde take on roots music. Latin Playboys draw from blues, border music, experimental studio trickery, and cinematic sound textures on their ambitious self-titled 1994 album. All of the material was composed by Hidalgo...